Just a post from another member's suggestion on Toyota Nation. Regarding the Cam seal replacement, he replaces the new cam seal by putting in the new cam seal first, reverse the old cam seal against the new one, reverse the cam sprocket and use the bolt to tighten the cam sprocket down thus seating the new seal. Then take the cam sprocket back off, turn it around and presto, seated seal! My seal wasn't leaking and since I had limited time, I didn't try this method but it makes a lot of sense. My 2 cents on this issue. Maybe it will help someone. Great writeup and pictures!!

Dave

 

Good suggestion, have used a somewhat similar method.

 

My hardest part yesterday was getting the dog gone timing belt on with out pulling out the rest of my hair. Finally, I had my son help me and took the tensioner pulley off and ran the belt, then put it back on that way and moved up the tension with brute force that way. Went on a lot easier that way. Spun my crankshaft around two different times and cam marks and crank all lined up perfect. Purred like a kitten after that. If I do it again, it should go faster next time. I was rather disappointed in the poor timing cover gaskets I got from Toyota though. Seems like I could have just got as good at Home Depot or a local gasket shop!

 

Good job!

There is always a learning curve on this job.

The gaskets are there to keep out debris, water, they tend to degrade with time.

 

The gaskets I was talking about were the brand new ones from Toyota. They obviously changed up their design on them, the old ones seemed better material but tore up when they were taken off. Anyway, will know better next time!

 

You can make your own gasket by using the round rubber gasket (looks like a rubber hose) used for securing the aluminum screens in windows. They can be had in different diameters at Home Depot or Lowes. Use silicon seal to keep it in place. This solution will last forever.

 

Great suggestion about the rubber strips from the window screens, I will try that next time I take off the timing covers (if I have to do that anytime soon)!

Dave

 

Just enjoy!

Jewellery

 

Don't post this!

 

I talk to the upstair.